Before we look at the types of screwdrivers, let’s see where they came from.
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The screw thread is believed to have been invented around 400 BCE by “the father of mechanics”, Archytas of Tarentum – a Greek philosopher. And as you'd expect, its use was essential… to extract olive oil and grape juice. It was, however, later developed and used to alter water levels.
It’s believed the screwdriver was invented around the late 15th century. Back then, screws and screwdrivers were mostly handmade by wood craftsmen, so depending on what they needed, varied in shape and size.
So, in , when Jacques Besson (a French inventor) created both a bolt and screw manufacturing machine and a screw-cutting plate for use with lathes, bolt and screw applications began to rise. When the English company, Hindley of York, perfected Besson’s screw-cutting plate and made it widely accessible, the number of applications grew even faster.
A couple of centuries later, in the 18th, Antoine Thiout, the French clockmaker, further developed screws and created a semi-automatic “screwdriver”. Simply, a screw drive attached to a lathe. But more importantly, Thiout's development meant threaded parts could be produced repeatably and consistently.
As we entered the Industrial Revolution, the demand and production of screws and screwdrivers rose. This rise in demand (and potential new uses) meant the development of new designs followed. You see, until then, slotted screws and drivers were the only real option. But they were frustrating to line up, and drivers continued to slip.
So in , when P.L. Robertson invented the square drive, the market accepted it with open arms and a big, cheesy grin.
But business will business. And in what we assume was a way to save money (i.e. paying Robertson his royalties), the Hex screw shortly followed, and slippage in high-torque applications became less of a problem.
Hex screw meet hex key
In the early s, to help support car production lines, Henry Philips invented the Phillips cross-shaped screw and driver (well, he actually bought it from someone else and redesigned it…). But his design was easier to use than the slotted alternative and allowed the driver to intentionally slip out (or ‘cam out') once the screw was firmly in place, preventing damage from over-torquing.
Henry Phillips’ screwdriver design. Patent: US | Source: Google Patents
In the 60s, out came the Torx driver, and it was anything but swinging because its novel design intentionally prevented the driver from camming out. This allowed for better torque transfer, more stability (thanks to the increased points of contact) and minimised damage from slippage.
Torx patent. US | Source: Google Patents
As you can probably recognise, a lot of these designs were standardised, creating the much-loved and very essential engineering tools we still use. And since then, we’ve continued to develop them, creating countless other variations that sit on the market today.
If you’d like to learn more about the history of the screwdriver (and screw), there are some amazing articles here. History of the screwdriver | History of the screw | Screwdriver and screw evolution
The screwdriver has three main components: the handle, shaft (or shank) and tip (and blade). And to accommodate the wide range of screws, requirements and environments out there, the screwdriver features (and materials) differ in these components.
There are four main requirements that influence the shape and material of a screwdriver handle, all at the crux of the application. They are: comfort, accuracy/control, safety and cost.
Handles with softer, ergonomic and padded grips are more comfortable for prolonged use and reduce hand fatigue. Harder handles, however, are less comfortable but easier to control and hence more accurate.
Wood being cheap, easy to shape, a natural insulator and comfortable to hold makes it a popular choice. Generally, beech, ash or hickory are used because of their durability and wear resistance. To help protect them and give a smoother finish, wooden handles are also varnished or lacquered.
Most commonly, screwdriver handles are made from plastic. The type of plastic depends on their application (and the price we’re willing to pay). Options include cellulose acetate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), and nylon.
Generally speaking, the benefits of using plastics are that they’re easy to mould (great for complex, ergonomic shapes), wear-resistant, corrosion-resistant, solvent-resistant, durable, lightweight and cheap. And if you need to modify their properties further, you can.
(Ticking basically every box!)
It’s also common to see screwdriver handles with rubber grips. In oily, high torque, or vibration-rich applications, rubber grips can make screwdriver use a lot more enjoyable. But for the more precision-demanding applications, some screwdriver handles might be made from metal.
The screwdriver shaft extends from the screwdriver handle, and to cater for the range of jobs available, varies in length. Most shafts are made from steel and are either circular or hexagonal (so you can apply more torque with a spanner or wrench). But like the handle, the types of steel depend on the screwdriver’s intention.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is most often used with cheaper screwdrivers. Despite its strength and hardness, carbon steel isn’t such a tough cookie. So you’ll probably want to expose this to less demanding tasks (unless you enjoy picking up broken screwdriver bits).
Cr-Mo Steel
For higher-end screwdrivers, the shafts are often made from the more expensive chromium-molybdenum (Cr-Mo) steel. It has better wear resistance and a very balanced combination of strength, toughness and corrosion resistance.
Cr-Vn Steel
And then between the two sits chromium-vanadium (Cr-Vn) steel. It’s very strong, resilient to wear and tear and particularly corrosion-resistant. It’s often used in the automotive industry for parts, tools and fasteners too.
Stainless Steel
Occasionally, you might see stainless steel screwdriver shafts - often when corrosion resistance is particularly important. It does, however, come at a cost of hardness (meaning it’s less efficient driving higher torques).
Of course, you can always use heat treatments to improve toughness, hardness, strength and wear resistance. But as you’d expect, they'll come with a higher price tag and end up being more specialist screwdrivers.
Screwdriver tip (or blade)
With many possible slot options, you obviously need to pick the screwdriver tip shape and size that best suits your screw. Due to the shape and stress concentration (and to an extent environmental exposure), the tips are more demanding than the shaft. They’re also often interchangeable, so you can use one screwdriver for more tasks.
S2 Tool Steel
S2 tool steel is a high-performance alloy that combines carbon, silicon, molybdenum, chromium and vanadium. And because of its great shock and abrasion resistance, hardness and ease of machining, it’s a common choice.
Cr-Vn Steel
Similarly, chrome-vanadium (Cr-Vn) steel (mainly SAE ) is also popular thanks to its high strength, toughness and resistance to wear.
TiN Coatings
And then in some situations, screwdriver tips might be titanium nitride (TiN) coated to improve their surface hardness, reduce friction and improve wear resistance. Like the other screwdriver components, price and function usually dictate what material to use.
Before you jump into your toolbox(es) and pull out the first screwdriver you find, let's be methodical about this. That way, you don’t have to blow the dust off your woodworker's tool collection or dig out your engineer’s essentials unnecessarily.
To choose the perfect screwdriver for you, follow this ultra engineer-friendly 8-step screwdriver selection process. (What?... It is...)
Step 1: What’s the job?
We’d like to think you’d know what you're about to drive or unscrew… and that you're not just looking for something to stab your screwdriver into. Are you working with small electronics? Household repairs? Or a larger construction project outside? Your job will influence your screwdriver's shape, size and quality.
Step 2: How many screws?
If you’ve got a lot, then you’re going to want something comfortable. Are they small and fiddly? You’ll likely want something harder and easier to control so you can be more precise. Or, if it’s a ‘one and done’, don’t let us stop you from going rogue… and trying something you shouldn’t.
Step 3: What’s the material?
In other words, how much torque do you need to apply? Of course, screw size plays a role here, too. Are there going to be regular vibrations or a risk of electric shocks? This will influence the strength of your screwdriver and its handle type.
Step 4: Choose your size
Are you working on something small? Or something big? Can you get to it easily? Or hardly see it? For the small fiddly jobs, try a precision screwdriver. For the arm swingers, try a handle you can get your hand around. Or, for the tighter spaces, try a screwdriver with a shaft length that lets you reach your screw. A head torch is optional.
Step 5: Choose your tip type
What screw are you working with here? Philips? Flathead? Torx? Match your tip shape to your screw. If possible, test it to make sure it's a snug fit. If the space is awkward, you might benefit from a magnetic tip to help hold the screw in place. If you’re working next to delicate electronics, however, probably don’t.
Step 6: Choose your quality level
How specialist is your problem? Is your screwdriver likely to be pushed to its limit? Quality screwdrivers are more durable and less likely to strip screws or break when you’re using them.
Step 7: What kind of mood are you in?
If you’re like us, you might proudly own a large selection of screwdrivers to pick from. Depending on your mood, you might fancy going au naturel with a wooden handle or worst-case scenario with a screwdriver waaaayyy too good for its job.
Step 8: Choose your screwdriver type
Finally, go ahead and pick your best-suited screwdriver type.
There are a lot of screws out there, and so a lot of screwdrivers too. Knowing what’s available and what they do will help you know what’s right for the job. Let’s have a look and see what screwdriver types exist.
The flathead screwdriver is often used for everyday tasks and general-purpose applications across a number of “areas”. You’ll find slotted screws in woodworking, electronics and household items. The old breed of joiners like flathead screws (and hence drivers) because you can make them all line up and look neat.
Pros: Versatile, simple design, and it’s compatible with a wide range of screw sizes. Great for opening tins of paint.
Cons: Can slip out of the screw head, especially with worn screws. Not great for high-torque applications.
Better torque transmission and can provide better stability with larger or more stubborn screws.
Type 1b: Parallel Flathead Screwdriver
Better suited for pre-drilled holes where the screw head is the same size as the hole - at least, in woodworking.
Another common screwdriver is the Phillips screwdriver. It’s often used for assembling electronics, appliances and machinery, especially in “mass production” industries.
Pros: Designed to cam-out in high-torque applications, which in turn reduces the risk of damaging the screws and components.
Cons: Not the most effective in high-torque applications and has limited compatibility with other screw types. Its ‘sharper’ tip can also be more prone to snapping.
Very similar to the Phillips but its extra resistance to cam-out makes it a great choice for high-torque applications like those in the automotive, construction and manufacturing sectors.
Pros: It has better contact with the screw (vs Phillips), reducing slippage and increasing torque transfer.
Cons: Requires precise alignment to avoid cam-out but can also be confused with Philips screwdrivers where it won’t work well/at all.
The clue’s in the name… because it's the preferred choice for high-torque and high-precision applications. Often used in automotive, aerospace and electronics assemblies. They’re star-shaped and sized in T-numbers (from T1 - T100).
Pros: Great torque transfer with reduced cam-out. Compared to the flathead and Phillips, the Torx has a much better resistance to stripping.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit screwdriver manufacturer.
Cons: Requires specific Torx screws, which might not be as readily available.
Often used for furniture assembly, machinery, bicycles and automotive components.
Pros: High torque transmission with a secure engagement, so it doesn’t slip. Also great resistance to stripping. You can use both hex (Allen) keys as well as screwdrivers. Woop.
Cons: Limited capability with other screws.
P.L. Robertson’s square-head screwdriver is widely used in woodworking, construction and furniture assembly, especially in Canada and some European countries.
Pros: Easy to use one-handed. Self-centering and great torque transmission. Compared to other screwdriver types, it brings better stability.
Cons: With a worn head, it can cam-out often due to its tapered edges. You’ll then need to push hard to keep engagement. It’s also less common outside Canada.
Tri-wing screws are often used to prevent (or deter) tampering, so the screwdrivers aren’t widely available. They're most commonly used in electrical devices but originally made for aerospace applications.
Pros: Provides tamper resistance and security because they only fit tri-wing screws.
Cons: Limited applications and not widely available.
They're used in security-sensitive applications to prevent tampering and unauthorised access because they can have unique (or rare) tip designs. Some are Torx variations.
Pros: Offers various ‘tamper-resistant’ features like unique tip designs.
Cons: Limited availability. So if you lose one...
The impact driver uses a sudden rotational force to loosen stubborn or rusted screws, typically in automotive, construction and industrial applications. With an internal spring, slot and pin, they turn linear force (the impact) into rotational.
Pros: Can provide high torque and impact force to loosen screws off without stripping or damaging the screw head.
Cons: Not really that great for precise or delicate applications… they also (often) require a hammer. Due to the ‘designed-in’ cam out, impact drivers and Phillips screws don’t make a great pair.
Or as they're known at MetMo... Buzzkills. Because insulated screwdrivers do what they say on the tin. They use insulated (non-conductive) materials to protect the user against any potentially shocking situations.
Pros: Help keep the user safe when working with electrics.
Cons: Not always easily identifiable so you could end up picking the wrong (non-insulated) one.
Spanner screwdrivers have forked tips with two prongs. They are often used in ‘security-sensitive’ applications (like fire alarms or commercial door hardware) so standard screwdrivers can’t be used to tamper.
Pros: They pair with tamper-resistant screws, making them ideal for security features.
Cons: Limited availability which can be problematic for maintenance, repair and replacement.
For the fiddly jobs, a precision screwdriver is perfect. They're often used for small, delicate screws (like the ones in electronic devices, watchmaking and jewellery).
(It’s come a long way since Antoine Thiout’s original lathe/screw drive, eh!)
Pros: They have fine tips and often hard metal handles for precise control and better manoeuvrability in tight spaces. They can also be used with the thumb and middle finger for further control.
Cons: Very limited uses due to its low torque capability.
Used where precise torque control is required. They have a torque-limiting clutch, so you can’t over-torque and damage the screw/object.
Pros: Allows accurate and consistent torque application, reducing the risk of over- and under-tightening.
Cons: Limited torque range, and may require calibration/adjustment for specific torque settings.
Designed to quickly and efficiently drive or remove screws in many general-purpose applications. They’re also used in assembly lines, construction projects, furniture assembly and many other repetitive screw-driving applications.
Pros: Removes a lot of manual effort, meaning you can comfortably drive high volumes of screws. Unlike manual screwdrivers, you can also adjust speed and torque to prevent over- and under-tightening, at least on some more specialist electric screwdrivers.
Cons: They require power and hence re-charging. They’re typically more expensive than manual screwdrivers, and they also require periodic maintenance.
A chisel and screwdriver hybrid. In other words, a weapon of mass destruction. They generally have stronger tips and handles, so they can take a good thwack with a hammer.
Pros: They're more robust than your typical screwdriver and often used in non-typical screw-driving applications (like scraping, splitting or prying).
Cons: Like anything involving a hammer and screwdriver, they should probably come with a warning.
A bit of a “jack of all trades”. A multi-bit screwdriver is great for odd jobs around the house and will help get you out of a muddle. But they’re not ideal for the more specialist applications. They are compact, though, so they’re easier to store.
Pros: Very versatile because they can fit a lot of screws. Easy to store (and forget...). Sometimes they come with a ratchet mechanism too.
Cons: Better for the less demanding tasks. The bits’ looser fit means they’re more prone to slipping and screw stripping.
Great for applications requiring repetitive or continuous screw-driving (like assembly lines, construction or maintenance work). Its mechanism lets the screwdriver apply torque in one direction whilst free to move in the other.
A great example would be the Baumann-Weltrecord ratchet screwdriver (although that comes with a drive handle - and we’re also a little biased…).
Pros: Fast, efficient and repeatable screw-driving requiring minimal wrist movement. They also help to minimise errors.
Cons: Bulkier and more complex than standard screwdrivers. More moving parts means more potential problems (and maintenance). They can only apply torque in one direction at a time.
Because they couple as both a fidget toy and tool, MetMo’s drivers sit in a slightly different category.
You can think of them as a hybrid of old and modern ratchet screwdrivers, reimagining Conrad Baumann’s s ratchet driver design and injecting some MetMo satisfaction at every opportunity. Both our ratchet drivers are very high quality (if we do say so ourselves) and amazingly fun to fiddle with.
Our original and larger driver lets you drive screws with up to 70Nm of torque (the same as a VW Polo!), so you’ll have no issue driving through 4 tonnes of granite or a bit of 4x2.
It’s like a smaller brace (the precursor to the electric drill) that’s still compatible with all the standard removable Hex drive bits/blade types. You can even use it with standard adapters to make it even more versatile.
If you fully lock out the Driver, you can turn it into a fully manual driver. It’s a premium, ‘engineer-approved’ hybrid screwdriver perfect for a whole range of uses.
Learn more about the MetMo Driver and see its glowing reviews.
Like the former. But smaller. After a lot of success with the MetMo Driver, our pledgers asked for a smaller, more pocket-sized version. So we set to work, and this is what we created.
The Pocket Driver is perfect for handling smaller jobs like computer maintenance and bicycle jobs but not wimping out from the more demanding ones. Despite fitting in your pocket, it still packs a punch, and you’ll be surprised just how much torque it delivers.
We designed it to help bridge the gap between hex keys, T-drivers, microdrivers and of course screwdrivers. And because of its versatility and comfort, it’s our favourite screwdriver for a lot of jobs.
Unlike its big brother, you've also got inline storage for two emergency bits. And it’s still compatible with all standard removable Hex drive bits, so you can use all your usual modern fixtures and keep driving all day long.
Learn more about the MetMo Pocket Driver.
Okay, we get it. There are a lot of screwdrivers out there. So, are you better served collecting screwdriver bits or screwdriver sets?
Like picking a screwdriver, it boils down to what you’re going to use them for and how often.
Interchangeable screwdrivers, or multi-bit drivers, are usually bulkier and heavier, meaning they need more torque to use. They’re also limited in size, so you might not be able to get into the small spaces. A screwdriver set on the other hand will have a variety of lengths, meaning you can drive wherever you like.
If you’ve got more toolboxes than teeth, then you might opt for the screwdriver sets. They offer you more flexibility, so you can pick the screwdriver best suited to your job. But if you’ve only got a shelf under your sink for storage, then a multi-bit driver might suit you better. That way, you can still get a lot of everyday tasks done but not worry about forgetting just how many screwdrivers you actually own.
For the simpler, less demanding tasks, opt for a multi-bit driver. For the more demanding, opt for a screwdriver set. So we guess the simple answer becomes: have both.
Now you know how not to. You know what screwdriver options exist, where they came from, how they vary and, of course, how to pick the best screwdriver for the job. Hopefully, you’ve also found a reason to buy some more.
Electric screwdrivers have become an essential item in the modern assembly facility because they are simple and relatively easy to use. However, even the most simple applications can be assisted with newer, state of the art tools. One useful upgrade on the standard handheld electric screwdriver includes electric torque controlled screwdrivers, like the ones sold at Delta Regis Tools.
These screwdrivers are specially designed for precision torque control. The electrical torque screwdriver is designed to intelligently shut off once the preset torque has been achieved automatically. With the use of an electric torque screwdriver, you can ensure product quality, cut costs, and reduce the chances of assembly errors. The benefits of an electric torque screwdriver certainly cover the costs associated with its purchase. Some of the benefits of selecting an electric torque screwdriver include:
There’s no denying that electric torque screwdrivers are excellent additions to the assembly process. Now that you have understood the benefits of owning one, how do you decide which electric torque screwdriver is the right one for you? If this is a question you’ve got on your mind, then there’s no need to fret – we’re here to help you answer that question. When you’re selecting the perfect electric torque screwdriver, the right tool for you is dependent on what you plan to do with it, which means you’ll have to ask yourself a few key questions:
Before diving into the specifications, it’s crucial to understand your specific application needs. Consider factors
like torque range, frequency of use, and the type of materials you’re working with. Delta Regis offers a diverse
range of electric torque screwdrivers, catering to various industries and applications.
The first question you have to ask yourself is what type of application you will be completing and assess your business’s production needs. You need to consider the projects you will be working on and the volume of work you have to complete in a day, the size of your assembly area, and how much torque you will need to deliver. Your choice of screwdriver is dependent on all of these factors. Only once you’ve determined the answer to these questions can you begin to look through your electric torque screwdriver options.
The torque range of your screwdriver should align with the requirements of your applications. Whether you need precision for delicate electronics or robust torque for industrial assembly, Delta Regis provides options with adjustable torque settings, ensuring accuracy across a wide range of applications.
Investing in a reliable and durable tool ensures long-term performance and cost-effectiveness. Delta Regis electric torque screwdrivers are built with high-quality materials, providing durability in challenging industrial environments.
Delta Regis electric torque screwdrivers come in both electric and cordless options. Consider the flexibility and convenience that a cordless screwdriver provides, especially in applications where maneuverability is crucial. Evaluate battery life and charging times for seamless operation.
Regular calibration is essential to maintain the accuracy of your electric torque screwdriver. Delta Regis provides calibration services to ensure your tool consistently meets specified torque requirements. Additionally, their tools are designed for easy maintenance, reducing downtime.
Consider the technical support and training offered by the manufacturer. Delta Regis provides comprehensive support, including training programs to maximize the effectiveness of their electric torque screwdrivers. A well-trained operator ensures optimal tool performance.
The benefits and drawbacks of different screwdrivers can be listed, but a fully informed choice can only be made if you know the cost of the screwdriver and whether it is within your budget. It’s no surprise that electric torque screwdrivers are more expensive compared to handheld manual screwdrivers. If you have a high production volume and require rapid and efficient assembly, then electric torque screwdrivers can help meet the demands of your project and can quickly generate a return on your investment.
At Delta Regis Tools Inc., we understand the importance of quality tools when it comes to your projects, and we are committed to providing the best equipment to get the job done right. Call Delta Regis Tools Inc. today at 1-888-473- to speak to one of our friendly experts, and we can help set you up with the right electric torque screwdriver for you or visit our website to learn more about our products and services.
Choosing the right electric torque screwdriver is a critical decision that impacts the efficiency and quality of your assembly processes. With Delta Regis, you not only gain access to a range of high-quality tools but also benefit from a trusted partner committed to your success.
Remember, the key lies in understanding your specific needs and finding a tool that aligns seamlessly with your applications. Delta Regis electric torque screwdrivers are engineered for precision, reliability, and user comfort, making them a standout choice in the world of assembly tools.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of hammer manufacturer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.